differently

adverb

dif·​fer·​ent·​ly ˈdi-f(ə-)rənt-lē How to pronounce differently (audio)
ˈdi-fərnt-
Synonyms of differentlynext
1
: in a different manner
2
: otherwise

Synonyms of differently

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Examples of differently in a Sentence

we do things differently around here
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Providers may update model versions, change serving infrastructure or retire older versions, and a model that behaved well on Tuesday can behave differently on Thursday. — Marcin Nowak, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 The study, published in the journal iScience, found that the pets process happy, scared, and angry emotions differently and that dogs can interpret differences between negative emotions, such as fear and sadness or fear and anger. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 28 Aug. 2026 People with different life experiences, perspectives on health and well-being, and histories with government, authorities and researchers interpret information differently and trust different sources. — Aleeza Gerstein, The Conversation, 28 Aug. 2026 Circuit splits are when federal appeals courts rule differently on the same topic. — Davis Giangiulio, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for differently

Word History

Etymology

Middle English differentliche, differently, from different different entry 1 + -liche, -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of differently was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing differently

Rhymes for differently

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Browse Nearby Words

differentiator
differently
differently abled
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Cite this Entry

“Differently.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/differently. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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